NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee State University announces its Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies, set to take place over two days, May 1-2, in the Gentry Center Complex. This year, the university will honor nearly 1,400 graduates, its largest class in several years, comprising around 200 graduate students and approximately 1,200 undergraduates across diverse disciplines.
In line with the university’s commitment to promote student engagement and empowerment, this year’s ceremonies will highlight selected student speakers from each college, providing them with a platform to share their unique stories and experiences. The initiative continues President Dwayne Tucker’s vision of a reimagined TSU that prioritizes student voices and leadership.
“Our Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies celebrate not only the academic accomplishments of our graduates but also embody our steadfast commitment to engaging and empowering our students,” President Tucker said. “By allowing our graduates to share their stories, we are investing in their futures and enhancing the vibrant TSU community. This initiative reflects a pivotal shift in our approach, moving away from past traditions where student voices were seldom heard.”
The commencement schedule is as follows:
– Friday, May 1
– 8 a.m. – Colleges of Business and Public Service
– 1 p.m. – Colleges of Agriculture and Engineering
– 6 p.m. – College of Education and the School of Graduate and Professional Studies
– Saturday, May 2
– 8 a.m. – College of Health Sciences
– 1 p.m. – Colleges of Liberal Arts, and Life and Physical Sciences
Additionally, the TSU Honors College will host a special ceremony on Thursday, April 30, at 3 p.m. in the Gentry Center Complex to celebrate all students in the honors program, previously known as the Honors Convocation.
“We are immensely proud of our graduates and their achievements. This moment marks the culmination of years of hard work, resilience, and dedication,” said Dr. Erik Schmeller, interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. “The selected student speakers exemplify the spirit of TSU, and we are eager to hear their inspiring words, which will undoubtedly resonate with their classmates and the entire university community.”
Families and friends of graduates are encouraged to partake in these momentous ceremonies, honoring the hard work and perseverance of TSU’s students as they embark on their future endeavors.
For additional information about the Spring 2026 commencement ceremonies, please visit www.tnstate.edu/records/commencement/.
